A student-led dance workshop, a self-defence class, a bake sale and a footy game were part of a Melton school’s efforts to empower women and girls.
Catholic Regional College year 9 students rose to the challenge issued by their teacher to raise awareness about family violence.
Year 9 leaders Agnes and Alyssa ran some of the activities in the past week.
“We didn’t really know anything about the issue,” Agnes said.
“When it was brought up in our class and we learned more about family violence, we found out it was a problem and we wanted to do something about it.
“Throughout the week, I’ve learned that women can do what they want to do.
“We need women and girls to be comfortable and be strong.”
Alyssa said she learned how important the issue of family violence was to the community.
Teacher Jules De Cinque said the theme for the week was “violence against women – let’s stop it at the start”.
“The initiative has inspired the young women to show strength and purpose through physical activities and sharing their skills with other girls and young women,” Ms De Cinque said.
“The students decided to address the issue by organising events for girls and young women at lunchtime for a week, including netball, basketball, dance, self-defence and an AFL game.
“All the activities have been run by the young women who organised, publicised, umpired, choreographed, instructed, baked and provided technical support.”
Donations from the activities and bake sale were used to raise funds for McAuley Community Services for Women.
